WASHINGTON — NASA’s Summer of Innovation project is accepting proposals through Monday, June 10, from organizations that want to offer students science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) educational experiences this summer.

NASA will grant “mini-awards” of as much as $2,500 each to encourage a wide variety of educational partners, such as museums, schools or school districts, and youth organizations to infuse existing summer and after-school student programs with STEM content.

“Fun and interactive learning experiences are a perfect way to keep students’ minds sharp during the summer break,” said Leland Melvin, NASA’s associate administrator for education in Washington. “NASA centers and other national partners offer great Summer of Innovation opportunities, but the mini-awards allow smaller, non-traditional partners to inspire students in their local communities through creative educational activities.”

In 2012, NASA’s Office of Education gave more than 200 mini-awards to groups, such as scout troops, church summer camps and similar community-based organizations. The agency expects to issue between 180 and 200 awards this year.

The Summer of Innovation project is designed to improve skills and enhance American middle school students and educators’ engagement with STEM disciplines. It provides hands-on learning opportunities and professional development activities through educational activities unique to NASA during the summer. Summer of Innovation is a key component of the agency’s broader education program to increase student interest in STEM courses, particularly among those in underserved sectors of the academic community.

To learn more about Summer of Innovation and apply for a 2013 mini-award, visit: